Apparatus for processing photographic prints or the like



Oct. 13, 1964 V. D. KREHBIEL APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINTS OR THE LIKE 2 Sheets-Sheet l Filed Dec. l1. 1961 IIO Muononomonombnomnnm ono n oa INVENTOR. VIVIAN D. KREHBIEL MAH/Mw ATTORN EY Oct. 13, 1964 v. D. KREHBIEL APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINTS OR THE LIKE Filed D60. l1. 1961 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 FIG. 8

INVENTR.

vwIAN o. KREHBIEL MMM ATTQRN EY A WMZ.

United States Patent O 3,152,533 APPARATUS FR PRCESSDJG PHUTDGRAPHlC PRINTS GR THE LIKE Vivian D. Krehhiel, 1532 Barvvise, Wichita, Kans. Filed Dec. 11, 1961, Ser. No. 158,378 9 Claims. (Cl. 954-98) This invention relates to apparatus used in processing photographic prints and the like. More specifically, the invention relates to means to receive and hold a plurality of photographic prints in spaced relation and substantially out of contact with the holding means during processing of same. In a still more specic aspect, th invention relates to means for holding photographic prints or the like during processing of saine and includes means defining a plurality of pocket-like compartments to receive the prints and means to prevent engagement of the prints with the major portion of the holding rmeans and further including perforations to provide for desirable circulation of the processing iluid. ln another specific aspect, the invention relates to carrier means for receiving and retaining photographic print holding means during processing of the photographic prints and in a preferred embodiment includes means to agitate the fluid around the photographs.

Various types of holding means for photographic prints or the like are known in the prior art. The prior art devices are usually constructed tov hold only a single print or do not provide adequate means to hold the prints in separated relation during processing of same. in addition, the prior art processing apparatus requires mar.- ual agitation of the prints or the fluid therearound so as to obtain the desired processing of the prints. The prior art devices do not provide means for receiving and holding a plurality of photographic prints or the like in spaced relation during processing of same and substantially out of contact with the major portion of the holding apparatus, nor do the prior art devices provide means whereby the fluid is agitated or moved about the prints `during processing of same. These deficiencies in the prior art require unnecessary man power and time in processing photographic prints, particularly color prints which require additional steps during processing of the prints.

ln accordance with the present invention, the deiiciencies of the prior art devices are overcome and new apparatus for processing photographic prints and the like are provided. The present invention includes holding means for a photograph or the like during processing of same which includes a plurality of sheet means which `are held together in spaced relation` Means are provided with each of the sheet means to prevent contact betwe'enthe major portion of same and a photograph or the like when positioned therebetween. The holding vmeans of the invention is desirably used in connection with carrier means of the invention. The carrier means of the invention includes a base member toK receive the holding means of the invention. Arm means are desirably provided with the carrier means and have hand hold means therewith so that same can be placed into and removed from processing fluids in operation.

In a preferred specific embodiment of the invention, the envelope for processing photographic prints or the like includes two spaced rectangular and preferably integrally formed plastic sheets having opposite edges on one of said sheets being secured to like edges on the other of said sheets such as by heat sealing, cementing, etc. The center portion of each of the sheets are desirably positioned in spaced and generally parallel planes and a plurality of spaced mounting holes are formed in each of the sheets. Desirably annular portions around the mounting holes in the sheets project from the plane lCe of the sheet toward the other of the sheets when assembled and the mounting holes are desirably arranged in spaced rows and are axially aligned with like holes in the other of the sheets. Spool-shaped spacer members are desirably provided and positioned between the sheets and the spacer members preferably have at ends, a curved and smooth surface between the ends and are smaller in diameter at the center portion than yat the ends, ysuch having been found desirable to position photographs or the like centrally between the sheets. The spacer members are positioned between the sheets and engage the annular projecting portions on the sheets around the holes with bolts, screws or the like passing through the holes and the spacer members and receiving nuts on the other end thereof to secure the sheets in spaced relation. The heads of the bolts and the nuts are desirably recessed so that a plurality of the envelopes can be assembled in close litting relation without the bolt heads and nuts causing interference between same. The spacer members serve to divide the sheets into a plurality of compartments which receive the photographic prints or the like during processing thereof. Each of the sheets preferably has a plurality of integrally formed elongatedridges which pro- ;ect toward the other of the sheets. The ridges on each of the sheets are desirably arranged in spaced rows which are substantially parallel to the edges ofthe sheets and with the ridges in each of the rows being generally parallel to cach other and with the ridges in adjacent ones of the rows being generally perpendicular to each other and staggered in relation to the ridges in the adjacent rows. The ridges on one of the sheets are positioned relative to the ridges on the other of the sheets so that facing ones `of same are approximately perpendicular to each otherand with the center portions thereof in close proximity to each other so that a minimum of contact is obtained between the sheets and the major portions of each of the sheets are maintained in spaced relation and out of contact with a photographic print or the like when positioned therein during processing of the same. A plurality of rows of perforations are desirably provided in each of the sheets and aligned with corresponding perforations in the other oi the sheets with the pertorations being positioned between the ridges and the rows of ridges yon each of the sheets. Desirably a plurality of spaced arcuate notches are provided along the bottom edge of each of the sheets and are axially aligned and receive positioning lugs `or the like in a carrier for the envelopes during processing of the prints. lt desired, more than two sheets can be assembled to form an envelope.

In a preferred specic embodiment, the carrier for envelopes includes an elongated and relative narrow plastic base member having integral upwardly projecting side and end walls therearound with a plurality of apertures passing through the bottom of the base member to permit passage of fluids therethrough. Integrally formed positioning lugs are desirably provided on the inside surface of the bottom of the base member and positioned in spaced relation to receive the notches of the envelopes when same are positioned therein. Two relatively dat arm members are desirably provided and secured in one end portion to the intermediate portion of the side walls of the base member and extend upwardly therefrom with the other end portion thereof being bent at Lright angles to overlie the bottom of the base member and having a portion thereof projecting upwardly therefrom and engageable with a like portion on the other of said arm members to thereby form a handle by which the carrier means can be moved. Preferably, the upper end portion ofone of the arm rembers has a semi-cylindrical vrecess therein which faces the other of the arm members. A plastic conduit is desirably provided having the center portion thereof bent into substantially three equal and parallel lengths and secured to the outside surface of the bottom of the base member with the end portions thereof projecting upwardly through opposite ends of the base member. A plurality of holes in the center portion of the conduit are desirably provided and one of the end portions of the conduit is positioned within and snugly received by the recess in the arm member. A coupling member receives the ends of the conduits and is attachable to a source of gas under pressure so that when one or a plurality of envelopes are positioned within the carrier between the handle portion of the arm members and the base member and inserted into a tank of processing uid or the like an inert gas such as nitrogen can be received by the coupling member to pass through the conduit and be discharged through the holes therein. The gas will pass upwardly through the holes in the conduit and through the envelopes or the like positioned in the carrier and around the prints to said in processing the envelopes and to aid in preventing same from sticking to the prints during processing.

In another preferred specific embodiment of the car- Iier of the invention, a base member is provided which is desirably elongated and has upwardly projecting side walls integrally formed therefrom with holes or openings passing through the bottom of the base member. Arm members are secured to an intermediate portion of the side members and project upwardly therefrom and form handle means. A spacer member is desirably provided and secured to one of the arm members and positioned between the handle means formed by the arm members to hold same in spaced and generally parallel relation. A positioning or retaining member or sheet is desirably provided and secured to the spacer member and one of the arm members and positioned in a generally parallel plane and in spaced relation to the base member. Positioning lugs are desirably provided along the base member to be received by an envelope or the like with same being positioned between the retaining member and the base member and insertable into processing uids in use. If desired, conduit means can be provided with the carrier member of this embodiment in the manner previously described.

A still further preferred specic embodiment of the carrier means of the invention includes base members and arm members secured to the base members and projecting upwardly therefrom in spaced and generally parallel relation. Hand hold means are desirably provided in the upper end portion of each of the arm members with same being utilized in inserting and removing the carrier from processing fluids in operation. Desirably the base member is open at the bottom except for the relatively short base members which receive the edges of an envelope or the like in operation with the envelope holding the photographic print. Side members extend between the arm members to hold the envelopes in position. The sides of the last-named carrier member are substantially open to permit free passage of processing uid therearound.

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide new apparatus for processing photographic prints or the like.

Another object of the invention is to provide new apparatus for processing photographic prints which includes envelope means to receive and hold the prints during processing and carrier means to receive and hold one or more of the envelopes during processing.

Another object of the invention is to provide new envelope means for receiving a photograph or the like during processing of same whereby the photographs are held in substantially spaced relation and out of contact with the envelope means during processing of same.

Another object of the invention is to provide new envelope means for holding photographs or the like wherein means space the central portions of the envelope means and locate the photographs centrally in the envelope.

Another object of the invention is to provide new envelope means constructed to provide maximum fluid circulation therethrough.

A further object of the invention is to provide carrier means to receive and hold envelope means or the like during development of photographic prints and the like.

Another object of the invention is to provide carrier means for envelope means or the like wherein the carrier means includes a perforated bottom to permit flow of processing uids or the like through the carrier means and through the envelope means.

Another object of the invention is to provide new carrier means having conduit means therewith connectable to a source of gas under pressure and positioned to discharge the gas through envelope means or the like positionable in lthe carrier.

Another object of the invention is to provide new apparatus for holding and carrying photographic prints or the like during development of same which is relatively inexpensive and easy to assemble and construct.

Various other objects, advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following descripiton taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the apparatus of the invention including the carrier means and envelope means in assembled relation, the envelope means being partially cut away.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged partial cross-section view through a sink or tank showing the apparatus of FIG. 1 positioned therein.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a preferred specific embodiment of the envelope of the invention showing the construction of same and illustrating an arrangement of photographs within the envelope.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cross-section view taken along the line 4 4 of FIG. 3 and illustrating a preferred construction of spacer means and the manner of securing same.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial isometric view illustrating a portion of the preferred speciiic embodiment of the envelope as illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a partial isometric View similar to FIG. 5 showing another preferred specific embodiment of the envelope of the invention.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged partial plan view illustrating a preferred construction of the ridges on the sheets forming the envelope.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial cross-section view taken along the line 8-8 of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view illustrating a preferred specic embodiment of the carrier of the invention.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial cross-section View of the carrier of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of another preferred specific embodiment of the carrier of the invention.

FIG. l2 is an isometric View showing a Still further preferred specific embodiment of the carrier of the invention.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the carrier of FIG. 12.

The following is a discussion and description of preferred specific embodiments of the new apparatus for processing photographic prints or the like of the invention, such being made with reference to the drawings whereon the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar parts and/or structure. It is to be understood that such discussion and description is not to unduly limit the scope of the invention.

In processing photographic prints and the like it is necessary to pass the print through a plurality of solutions of developing fluids, xers, water baths, etc. These steps are normally accomplished by the amateur photographer by providing a plurality of trays containing the various solutions :through which the individual prints are individually manually passed and are desirably agitated to facilitate processing of the prints. This process is more lengthy in regard to processing color photographic tion.

prints and the like and in addition it is often desirable that a plurality of prints be processed simultaneously, particularly when the work is being done by professional photographers or amateurs processing a large volume of prints. Applicants apparatus for processing photographs and the like provides means whereby one or a plurality of prints are processed and easily moved from one container or receptacle to another with a minimum of effort.

The apparatus of the invention includes an envelope which is shown generally at 20 and is best seen in FIGS. 3-5 of the drawings. The preferred speciiic embodiment of the envelope shown includes two spaced sheets 22 and 24 of like construction which are preferably generally rectangular in shape and integrally formed of a plastic material which is nonreactive with the chemicals and solutions used in developing a photograph or the like. The sheet 22 has two opposite edges 26 and 2S which are positioned from the plane of the main portion of the sheet 22 and which engages and is secured to like edges of the sheet 24 by heat sealing, cementing or other suitable means. The connection of the sheets is best illustrated in FIG. 5 where the edge 26 of sheet 22 engages the edge Sil of the sheet 24. With this construction the center portion of each of the sheets 22y and 24 are in spaced relation and in generally parallel planes.

The sheet 22 preferably has a plurality of spaced mounting holes 32 and an annular portion of the sheet 22 which surrounds the holes 32 projects from the sheet toward the other of the sheets, the projecting portion being best illustrated at 34 in FIG. 4 The holes 36 and projecting annular portions 38 of sheet 24 are of like construction and the holes in the sheet 22 are axially aligned with the holes 36 in the sheet 24.

A plurality of spacer members 45t are provided and each of the spacer members 40 are preferably spoolshaped and have ilat ends 42 and 44 and a curved and smooth surface 46 between the ends 42 and 44 with the surface 46 preferably being smaller in diameter at the center portion than at the ends as is best illustrated in FIG. 4. Aligned ones of the holes 32 and 36 in the sheets 22 and 24, respectively, have one of the spacer members 40 positioned therebetween and engaging the projecting annular portions 34 and 33 around the holes. A plurality of screws or bolts 48 are provided and one of the bolts 48 passes through each of the holes 32 and 36 and through the spacer member 4t) positioned therebetween. A plurality of nuts 56 are provided and each of the nuts receives the threaded end portion of one of the bolts 48 to secure the center portions of the sheets 22 and 24 and the spacer member 4t) in assembled rela- The recessed portions or projecting portions 34 and y3S of the sheets 22 and 24 permit the heads of the bolts 4S and the nuts 50 to be recessed so that when a plurality of the envelopes 2t) are in Contact the bolt heads and nuts will not interfere with movement of the sheets.

The apertures 32 and 36 which receive the bolts 48 are desirably arranged in rows on the sheets 22 and 24 as is best illustrated in FIG. 3 of the drawings and the arrangements of these holes is chosen so as to divide the envelopes 20 into a plurality of compartments of the desired sizes which receive photographic prints as illustrated at 52 in the dashed lines in FIG. 3. The cornpartments can be of various sizes to simultaneously process a plurality of prints of different sizes or, if desired, only the center rows of bolts 48 both longitudinally and transversely can be provided so as to provide four substantially equal compartments for photographs of like sizes. Also, the envelope can be substantially the same size as the print and the spacer members eliminated. As will be apparent, the location and number of the holes '32 and 36 and bolts 48 passing therethrough is widely variable, depending upon any specic application of the apparatus of the invention. Each of the compartments in the envelope can receive two photographic prints facing in opposite directions which further increases the total number of prints that can be processed at any time with a given number of envelopes 20. By providing the spacer members 4i) with a surface 46 which is smaller in diameter at the center than at the outer ends thereof the photographs can engage the smaller portion of the surface 46 and tend to be positioned centrally within the envelope 20.

Means are desirably provided with each of the sheets 22 and 24 so that the major portion of the center part of the sheets are maintained substantially out of contact with each other and out of contact with the prints 52 therebetween, such being desirable since contact between the sheets 22 and 24 and the prints 52 may result in a portion of the sheet being unevenly developed or not developed and may further result in a tendency of the print 52 to stick or adhere to the surfaces of the sheet. A plurality of ridges or the like 54 are provided and such are preferably integrally formed in the sheets 22 and 24 with such being positioned to project toward the other of the sheets when same are assembled into an envelope in the manner illustrated in the drawings. Desirably the ridges are formed in rows which are desirably spaced from each other and are approximately parallel to the top and side edges of the sheets as is best illustrated in FIG. 3 of the drawings. The ridges 54 within each of the rows of ridges are preferably generally parallel to each other as illustrated with the ridges in adjacent ones of rows being generally perpendicular to each other and adjacent rows of the ridges are preferably staggered in relation to the ridges in the adjacent rows. The ridges on one of the sheets is preferably positioned relative to the ridges on the other of the sheets so that same are in close proximity to each other when the sheets are assembled into an envelope with adjacent ones being approximately perpendicular to each other and with the center portions of the ridges being in close proximity. See FIGS. 7 and 8. As will be apparent from FlGS. 7 and 8, the ridges are formed and positioned relative to each other on the sheets 22 and 24 so that any contact between the sheets and a print therebetween will be only a point contact between the ridges 54 and the major portion of the sheets 22 and 24 are held out of contact with each other and out of contact with a photographic print or the like positioned between the sheets. Preferably, each of the ridges 54 is elongated and relatively narrow in relation to the length thereof.

lt is desirable that the envelopes 2t? be constructed so that iluid can flow freely therebetween during processing of the prints 52 positioned therein. Also, it is desirable thatthe envelopes displace a relatively small amount of fluid in the various containers for the huid. To achieve these purposes a plurality of rows of perforation's are preferably provided in each of the sheets 22 and'24 yand such are desirably positioned to be aligned with corresponding perforations 69 in the other of the sheets. The perforations @il are desirably positioned between the ridges 54 in each of the rows of ridges as is best illustrated in FlG. 3 of the drawings.

When the envelopes 2t) of the invention are utilized with carrier means, they preferably include positioning means to locate the envelope in the desired location relative to the carrier means. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the drawings, this is provided bythe spaced arcuate notches 62 of FIG. 3 which receive positioning lugs or the like in the carrier.

If desired, more than two of the sheets can be utilized in constructing an envelope. Such an envelope is illustrated in FIG. 6 of the drawings and includes sheets 70, 72 and 74 which are assembled by securing their edge portions together as shown at 75 by heat sealing, cementing, etc. Each of the sheets 70, 72 and 74 includes ridges 76 of the same or similar construction to those previously described at 54 in connection with FIGS. 7 and 8. Spaced apertures, holes or perforations 78 are provided and positioned between the ridges 76. The structure, location and function of the ridges 7 6 and perforations 73 are the same or similar to those previously described in connection with the sheets 22 and 24. The center sheet 72 is of the same construction of the other sheets except that its end portion which is attached at 75 to the other sheets can be in the same plane as the center portions of the sheets. While the envelopes have been described as having two or three sheets, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this structure can be expanded as desired, depending upon the application and operation to be accomplished.

While the envelopes previously described can be utilized separately, they are desirably used in connection with carrier means therefor when one or a plurality of the envelopes are immersed in a processing iluid. A preferred specific embodiment of a carrier means for the envelopes is illuminated in FIGS. 9 and 10 and is shown generally at 80. The carrier includes an elongated and preferably relatively narrow base member 82 which is preferably formed of a plastic material and which desirably has integral upwardly projecting side walls 84 and 86 and integrally formed end walls 58 and 911 therebetween. A plurality of holes or apertures 92 are desirably provided in the bottom of the base member S2 to permit free iiow of fluids therethrough. A plurality of integrally formed semi-cylindrical positioning lugs 9d are preferably provided and extend transversely across the inside surface of the bottom 8-3 of the base member 82. Preferably the positioning lugs 94 are in spaced relation along the base member 82 and are desirably equally spaced and are positioned to receive the notches 62 of the envelopes 2i).

Two generally iiat and relatively narrow arm members 96 and 98 are provided and are secured in one end portion to the intermediate portion of the side walls Sd and 86, respectively. The arm members 96 and 98 extend upwardly from the base member 82 in spaced relation and the other end portion of the arm members project toward each other to form ledges or the like as shown at 1% and 102, respectively, which overlie the bottom 83 of the base member 82. A portion of each of the arm members 96 and 98 extends upwardly from the ledges 161B and 102 and such is shown at 164 and 106, respectively, and the portions 104 and 106 together form a handle. The inner surfaces of the portions 104 `and 166 are in contact over substantially all of their lengths. The portion 11M of arm member 96 desirably has a semi-cylindrical recess 1115 which extends transversely across the arm member 96 and faces the portion 1416 of the arm member 98.

A conduit is preferably provided and is shown generally at 110 and such is preferably made of suitable plastic materials. The conduit 110 has a center portion which is bent into three substantially equal and parallel lengths 112, 114 and 116 and such are secured to the outside surface of the bottom 83 of the base member $2 with the portions 112, 114 and 116 preferably extending substantially the entire length of the base member. The conduit can be secured to the base member by a strap or length of plastic material 118- which is attached to the conduit and to the bottom surface of the base member S2. A plurality of holes or openings 121D are provided in the center portion of the conduit along the convolutions 112, 114 and 116 thereof.

The conduit 11G has end portions 122 and 124 which extend upwardly through the base member S2 and are bent inwardly toward the arms as best illustrated in HG. 9. The end portion 124 has a portion of same snugly received in the recess 168 of the end portion 154i of the arm member 96 and such is retained therein by a press tit, by cementing same in position, etc. A coupling member 126 receives the ends of conduit 110 in the ends of the coupling member and the member 126 has a threaded nipple portion 128 which is constructed and adapted to receive a hose or the like in operation to supply a gas to the conduit 110 through the coupling member 126.

The apparatus previously described is shown in use in FIGS. l and 2 of the drawings. A plurality of the envelopes 21B are inserted into and received by the carrier 8@ by separating the flexible arms and the envelopes are positioned so that the sealed ends of the sheets are at the sides of the carrier and the open portions of the sheet are at the top and bottom thereof. The recesses 62 in the bottom of the envelopes 211 receive the positioning lugs 9dto prevent lateral movement of the envelopes. The arm members 96 and 13 are positioned at the sides of the envelopes 2@ and the portions 10i) and 102 of the arm members 96 and 9S are positioned directly over the envelopes 2t) and prevent upward movement of same during use.

The upper end portions 1M and 106 of the arm members 96 and 95 form the handle means when in engagement and the entire apparatus including the envelopes and the carrier can be lifted from and inserted into a suitable tank or container as shown at 1319. The threaded portion of coupling 126 is connected to a hose or the like 132 which leads to a source of gas under pressure. Tank or container 13@ holds a fluid 13d which can be a developing solution, a fixer, a wash or bath, etc. The carrier member is inserted into the tank or container 130 and gas passes through tube or conduit 111B to the bottom of the carrier Si? and passes through the holes in the center portion of the conduit. The gas will move upwardly through and between the envelopes 2t). As the gas moves up, around and through the envelopes 2i? it will agitate the fluid around the prints therein during development of same. When the apparatus has been in the tank or con' tainer 1341 for the desired period of time, the entire apparatus is removed by grasping portions 11M and 106 of the arms and the apparatus is placed in the next tank or solution which is normally adjacent to the tank 13@ and of similar construction. The holes or openings 60 in the envelope provide for free and even ow of the fluid through and between the envelopes and the projecting ridges 54 prevent the photographic prints from engaging or sticking to the major portion of the sides of the envelope.

Another preferred specific embodiment of a carrier for the envelopes is illustrated in FIG. 11 of the drawings and includes two upwardly extending arm members and 142 and rtwo spaced connecting members 144 and 1116 which extend between and are desirably secured to the lower end of the arm members 140 and 142 and are generally parallel to each other. The arm 141i includes an end portion or member 141 and side members or portions 143 and 145 which project from the end portion 141. The arm member 142 is of similar construction and includes an end portion 147 and spaced side portions 149 and 151. The arm members 141) and 142 desirably have an opening in the top portion thereof as shown at 152 and 154, respectively. The openings 152 and 154 form hand hold means by which the carrier is moved. Two side members 156 and 158 are provided and are secured in their end portions to the upper end portions of the arm member 14) and 142 with the side members 156 and 15S serving to retain the envelopes in position and preventing lateral movement of same. These side members also add rigidity to the carrier member. A suppont or base member 1611 is provided in the bottom of the carrier and extends between the side portions 149 and 151 of the arm member 142. A similar base or support member is provided and secured between the arm portions 143 and 145 of the arm member 140. These last-named members are engaged by the lower edges of the envelopes when positioned therein and prevent same from passing through the bottom of the carrier. As will be observed from FIG. ll, the bottom `of the carrier is open except for the members 16@ and such permits free passage of uids therethrough and through an envelope positioned therein.

The carrier of FIG. l1 is preferably used in connection with the envelope means described hereinbefore and in use the envelopes are positioned within` the carrier beytween the side members 156 and 158 and within the side portions of the arm members 140 and 142 and resting on the base members 160. The apparatus is then placed in a `container or tank such as shown at 130 and moved from yone tank to the other by use of the hand hold means 152 and 154 during processing of the prints or the like positioned within the envelopes. The carrier means of FIG. 1l can be manually moved in the solution to facilitate passage of the solution through and around the envelopes during processing if desired. Also, the tank means 130 can be provided with a condui-t to carry a nitrogen gas or the like lto be discharged while the carrier of FIG. 11 is `positioned therein or, if desired, a conduit similar in structure and operation to that shown at 110 of FIGS. 9 and l0 can be provided with the apparatus tof FIG. 1l.

A still funther preferred specific embodiment of the carrier means of Ithe invention is illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 of the drawings and is shown generally by the numeral 170. The carrier 170 includes a base member 172 having a bottom 174 and integral upwardly projecting side walls 176 and 173. The base member 172 is preferably elongated and relatively narrow as indicated in the drawings and is preferably made of a suitable plastic material. A plurality of apertures or holes 18) are provided in the bottom 174 of the base member 172 so that liuids will pass therethrough in the manner previously described.

A plurality of positioning lugs 182 are provided and such are preferably integrally formed from the bottom 174 of the base member 172 and extend transversely thereacross and intersect the side walls 176 and 178. The relatively flat arm members 134 and 186 are provided and are secured in their lower end portions to the side walls '176 anr 178 respectively of the base member 172. The

other end pontionof the arm members 1154 and 186 are bent inwardly toward each other to form ledges 18E and 190, respectively and project upwardly therefrom to form hand gripping or handle portions at 192 and 194, respectively.

A spacer member 196 is preferably provided and is positioned between the portions 192 and 194 of the arm members 184 and 186 and the spacer member 196 is desirably secured to one of the arm members, such as to the portion 192 of arm member 184. Spacer member 196 is preferably rectangular in cross section as best shown in FIG. 13 and desirably extends the length of the handle portions of the arrn members.

A plate or sheet of plastic material 198 is desirably provided and is secured tothe bottom of the spacer memberv196 and/or to the ledge 188 of tthe arm member 184 to be movableftherewith. The sheet 198 preferably has a plurality of apertures 260 therethrough to permit fluid ilow of the processing liquids and/or the nitrogen gas utilized in agitating the prints retained by the carrier 170.

The sheet or plate 198 overlies the envelopes when positioned therein and serves to maintain same in position together with the positioning ylugs 182. Since the envelopes will normally fit relatively snugly between the sheet 198 and the bottom 174 of the base member 172, the ends of thebase member 172 can be open as shown, there being little or kno tendency of the envelopes to move endwise. The carrier 170101? FIGS. 12 and 13 is utilized in :the manner previously described in connection ywith FIGS. l and y2 and this carrier member can be provided'with a ,plastic` conduit or the like for a gas in the manner described in connection with the embodiment of the carriers shown in FIGS. 9 and l0.

As will be seen from the foregoing description of various embodiments of the carriers and envelope means of the invention, a highly versatile and desirable apparatus has been provided whereby one or a plurality of photographic prints or ythe like can be relatively easily processed merely by passing the carrier and envelope means ythrough the necessary solutions contained in tank means. Furthermore, the desirable agitation by the gas or the like which can be utilized with applicants invention gives desirable fluid movement in and around the envelopes. The photographs are maintained substantially out of contact with the envelope structure and the carrier means so that blurs or imperfections in the prints are eliminated.

The apparatus of the invention can be made of any suitable materials, the plastic material shown being desirable since same is non-reactive -to the chemicals utilized in processing a photographic print or the like. However, if desired, other suitable materials can be utilized. While the invention has been described in connection with preferred specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that this description is intended to illustrate and not to limit the scope of the invention, which is delined by the claims.

l claim:

1. An envelope for processing photographs and the like comprising, in combination, two spaced rectangular and integrally formed plastic sheets, two opposite edges on one of said sheets being heat sealed to like edges of the other of said sheets to secure said sheets together, the center portion of each of said sheets being in generally parallel planes and in spaced relation, a plurality of spaced mounting holes in each of said sheets, each of said sheets having annular portions thereof surrounding said holes therein projecting therefrom toward the other of said sheets, said holes being arranged in spaced rows with said holes in said one of said sheets being axially aligned with said holes in said other of said sheets, a plurality of spool-shaped spacer members having hat ends, a curved and smooth surface between said ends and being smaller in diameter at the center portion than at said ends, aligned ones of said holes in said sheets having one of said spacer members therebetween and engaging said annular portions of said sheets around said holes, a plurality of bolts, said bolts extending through said holes in each of said sheets and through said spacer members therebetween, a plurality of nuts, each of said nuts receiving oneL of said bolts to secure same in position with said nuts and the heads of said bolts being recessed in said annular portions of said sheets, said spacer members kdividing the space between said sheets into a plurality of compartments to receive photographic prints or the like during processing thereof, a plurality of integrally formed elongated ridges on each of said sheets projecting toward the other of said sheets, said ridges on each of said sheets being arranged in spaced rows parallel to the edges of said sheets and with said ridges within each of said rows being generally parallel to each other and with said ridges in adjacent Ones of said rows being generally perpendicular toeach other and staggered in relation to said ridges in said adjacent rows, said ridges on said one of said sheets being positioned relative to said ridges on said other of said sheets so that facing ones are approximately perpendicular to each other with the center portions thereof in close proximity to each other and with the major portion of each of said sheets out of contact with each other, a plurality of rows of perforations in each of said sheets aligned with corresponding perforations in the other of said sheets, said perforations being positioned between said ridges in said rows of ridges, and a plurality of spaced arcuate notches along the bottom edge of each of said sheets to receive positioning lugs in a carrier or the like for said envelope, said envelope being constructed and adapted to be received by a carrier and to receive photographic prints in said compartments formed by said spacer members and hold samefsubstantially out of contact with said sheets during processing of the prints.

2. An envelope for processing photographs and the like comprising, in combination, spaced rectangular plastic sheets, opposed edges of one of said sheets secured to il l like edges of another of said sheets, the center portion of each of said sheets being in generally parallel planes and in spaced relation, a plurality of spaced mounting holes in said sheets, said sheets having portions thereof' surrounding said holes and projecting therefrom, said holes being arranged in rows with said holes in one of said sheets being axially aligned with holes in another of said sheets, a plurality of spacer members, sheets having spacer members therebetween in alignment with said holes, a plurality of fastening means, said fastening means extending through said aligned holes in said sheets and through said spacer members therebetween, said spacer members dividingy the space between said sheets into a plurality of compartments to receive photographic prints or the like during processing thereof, a plurality of integrally formed elongated ridges on said sheets projecting toward another of said sheets, said ridges on each of said sheets being arranged in spaced rows, said ridges on one of said sheets being positioned relative to said ridges on said another of said sheets so that facing ones are approximately perpendicular to each other with the center portions thereof in close proximity to each other with a major portion of each of said sheets out of contact with each other, a plurality of perforations in each of said sheets, said envelope being constructed and adapted to be received by a carrier and to receive photographic prints in said compartments formed by said spacing members and hold same substantially out of contact with said sheets during processing of the prints.

3. An envelope for processing photographs and the like comprising, in combination, three spaced rectangular and integrally formed plastic sheets, two opposite side edges of each of said sheets being secured to like edges of the adjacent ones of said sheets, the center portion of each of said sheets being in generally parallel planes and in spaced relation, a plurality of spaced mounting holes in each of said sheets, each of said sheets having annular portions surrounding said holes therein projecting therefrom, said holes being arranged in spaced rows with said holes in said one of said sheets being axially aligned with said holes in said other of said sheets, a plurality of spool-shaped spacer members having fiat ends, a curved and smooth surface between said ends and being smaller in diameter at the center portion than at said ends, aligned ones of said holes in adjacent ones of said sheets having one of said spacer members therebetween and engaging said annular portions of said sheets around said holes, a plurality of bolts, said bolts extending through said holes in said sheets and through said spacer members therebetween, a plurality of nuts, each of said nuts receiving one of said bolts to secure same in position with said nuts and the heads of said bolts being recessed in said annular portions of said sheets, said spacer members dividing the space between each of said sheets into a plurality of compartments to receive photographic prints or the like during processing of same, a plurality of integrally formed elongated ridges on each of said sheets projecting therefrom, said ridges on each of said sheets being arranged in spaced rows parallel to the edges of said sheets and with said ridges within each of said rows being generally parallel to each other and with said ridges in adjacent ones of said rows being generally perpendicuiar to each other and staggered in relation to said ridges in said adjacent rows of ridges, said ridges on each of said sheets being positioned relative to said ridges on the adjacent ones of said sheets so that facing ones thereof are approximately perpendicular to each other with the center portions thereof in close proximity to each other and with the major portion of each of said sheets out of contact with each other, a plurality of rows of perforations in each of said sheets aligned with corresponding perforations in the other of said sheets, said perforations being positioned between said ridges in said rows of ridges, and a plurality of spaced arcuate edges along the bottom edge of each of said sheets to receive positioning lugs in a carrier or the like for said envelope, said envelope being constructed and adapted to be received by a carrier or the like and to receive photographic prints in said compartments formed by said spacer members and hold same substantially out of contact with said sheets during processing of the prints.

4. A carrier for holding a plurality of envelopes containing photographic prints or the like during development of same comprising, in combination, an elongated and relatively narrow plastic base member having integral upwardly projecting side and end walls therearound, a plurality of apertures through the bottom of said base member, a plurality of integrally formed semi-cylindrical positioning lugs extending transversely across the inside surface of said bottom of said base member in spaced relation and intersecting said side walls, two flat arm members secured in one end portion to the intermediate portion of said side walls and extending upwardly therefrom, the other end portion of each of said arm members overlying said .bottom of said base member and having a portion thereof engageable with each other and cooperating to form a handle, said other end portion of one of said arm members having a semi-cylindrical recess therein extending transversely thereacross and facing the other of said arm members, and a plastic conduit, the center portion of said conduit being bent into three substantially equal and parallel lengths and secured to the outside surface of said bottom of said base member with the end portions thereof projecting upwardly through opposite ends of said base member, a plurality of holes in said center portion of said conduit, one of said end pontions of said conduit being snugly received in said recess in said one of said arm members, a coupling member receiving the ends of said conduit, said carrier being constructed and adapted to receive therein between said base member and said handle a plurality of envelopes containing photographic prints or the like and be inserted into a tank of fluid with nitrogen gas being received by said coupling member and passing through said conduit to be discharged through said holes therein and pass through said envelopes to agitato said uid around said prints and prevent same from sticking to said envelopes.

5. A carrier for holding a plurality of envelopes containing photographic prints or the like during development of same comprising, in combination, an elongated and relatively narrow plastic base member having upwardly projecting side and end walls therearound, a plurality of apertures through the bottom of said base member, a plurality of positioning lugs extending across the inside surface of said bottom of said base member in spaced relation, two arm members secured in one end portion to the intermediate portion of said side walls and extending upwardly therefrom, the other end portion of each of said arm members overlying said .bottom of said base member and having a portion thereof engageable with each other and cooperating to form a handle, said other end portion of at least one of said arm members having a recess therein, a plastic conduit, a rst portion of said plastic conduit secured to the outside surface of said bottom of said base member with portions thereof projecting upwardly from opposite ends of said base member, a plurality of holes in said first portion of said conduit, a second portion of said conduit connected to the ends of said first portion of said conduit having a portion thereof received in said recess, an inlet means in said plastic conduit, said carrier being constructed and adapted to receive therein between said base member and said handle a plurality of envelopes containing photographic prints or the like and be inserted into a tank of tiuid with inert gas being received by said inlet means of said conduit and passing through said conduit to be discharged to said holes therein and pass through said envelopes to agitate said fluid around said prints and prevent same from sticking to said envelopes.

6. A carrier for holding a plurality of envelopes or the like containing photographic prints or the like during processing of same comprising, in combination, an elongated and relatively narrow plastic Abase member having integral upwardly projecting side walls, a plurality of apertures through the bottom of said base member, a plurality of integrally formed semi-cylindrical positioning lugs extending transversely across the inside surface of said bottom of said base member in spaced relation and intersecting said side walls, two relatively flat arm members secured in one end portion to the intermediate portion of said side walls and extending upwardly therefrom, the other end portion of said arm members overlying said bottom of said base member andl having portions thereof forming a handle, a spacer member secured to said other end portion of one of said arm members and positioned between said other end portion of said arm members, a tlat sheet secured to said other end portion of said one of said arm members and said spacer member, said sheet having a plurality of apertures therethrough, said sheet being substantially parallel to said bottom of said base member and in spaced relation therewith, said carrier being constructed and adapted to receive therein between said base member and said sheet a plurality of envelopes or the like containing photographic prints or the like and be inserted into a tank of iluid during processing of said prints.

7. A carrier for holding a plurality of envelopes or the like containing photographic prints or the like during processing of same comprising, in combination, an elongated and relatively narrow base member having side walls, a plurality of aperturesthrough the bottom of said base member, -two arm members secured to the intermediate portions of said side walls and extending upwardly therefrom, the end pontions of said arm members overlying said bottom of said base member and having portions thereof forming a handle, a spacing means positioned between said arm members, a flat sheet on one of said arm members, said sheet being substantially parallel to the bottom of said base member and in spaced relation therewith, said carrier being constructed and adapted to receive therein between said base member and said sheet a plurality of envelopes or the like containing photographic prints or the like and be inserted into a tank of fluid during processing of said prints.

8. Apparatus for processing a photographic print or the like comprising, in combination, a carrier having an elongated and relatively narrow plastic base member with integral upwardly projecting side and end walls therearound, a plurality of apertures through the bottom of said base member of said carrier, a plurality of integrally formed semi-cylindrical positioning lugs extending transversely across the inside surface of said bottom of said base member of said carrier in spaced relation and intersecting said side walls thereof, said carrier having two at arm members secured in one end portion to the intermediate portion of said side walls and extending upwardly therefrom in spaced relation, the other end portion of each of said arm members of said carrier overlying said bottom of said base member and having a portion thereof engageable with each other and cooperating to form a handle, said other end portion of one of said arm members of said carrier having a semi-cylindrical recess therein extending transversely thereacross and facing the other of said arm members, and a plastic conduit, the center portion of said conduit being bent in three substantially equal and parallel lengths and secured to the outside surface of said bottom of said base member with the end portions thereof projecting upwardly through opposite ends of said base member, a plurality of holes in said center portion of said conduit, one of said end portions of said conduit being snugly received in said recess in said one of said arm members, a coupling member receiving the ends of said conduit, and an envelope, said envelope including two spaced rectangular and integrally formed plastic sheets, two opposite edges on one of said sheets being secured to like edges on the other of said sheets of said envelope to secure same together, the center portion of each of said sheets being in generally parallel planes and in spaced relation, a plurality of spaced mounting holes in each of said sheets of said envelope, each of said sheets of said envelope having annular portions thereof surrounding said holes therein projecting therefrom toward the other of said sheets, said holes in said envelope being arranged in spaced rows with said holes in said one of said sheets thereof being axially aligned with said holes in said other of said sheets, a plurality of spool-shaped spacer members having ilat ends, a curved end smooth surface between said ends and being smaller in diameter at the center portion than at said ends, aligned ones of said holes in said sheets of said envelope having one of said spacer members therebetween and engaging said annular portions of said sheets around said holes therethrough, a plurality of bolts, said bolts extending through said holes in each of said sheets of said envelope and through said spacer members therebetween, a plurality of nuts, each of said nuts receiving one of said bolts to secure same in positi'on with said nuts and the heads of said bolts being recessed in said annular portions of said sheets, said spacer members dividing the space between said sheets into a plurality of compartments to receive photographic prints or the like during processing thereof, a plurality of integrally formed elongated ridges on each of said sheets of said envelope projecting toward the other of said sheets of said envelope, said ridges on said envelope being arranged in spaced rows on each of said sheets parallel to the edges of said sheets and with said ridges within each of said rows being generally parallel to each other and with said ridges of adjacent ones of said rows being generally perpendicular to each other and staggered in relation to said ridges in said adjacent rows, said ridges on said one of said sheets being positioned relative to said ridges on said other of said sheets so that spaced ones are approximately perpendicular to each other with the center portions thereof in close proximity to each other and with a major portion of each of said sheets of said envelope out of contact with each other, a plurality of rows of perforations in each of said sheets aligned with corresponding perforations in the other of said sheets of said envelope, said perforations in said envelope being positioned between said ridges in said rows of ridges, and a plurality of spaced arcuate notches along the bottom edge of each of said sheets, said envelope being positioned within said carrier with said notches along the bottom edge thereof receiving said positioning lugs on said carrier and with said envelope being positioned between said base member of said carrier and said handle thereon and between said end walls of said carrier, said apparatus being constructed and adapted so that nitrogen gas or the like can be provided to said coupling member of said carrier to pass through said conduit and be discharged through said holes therein and pass through said envelopes to agitate fluid around prints positioned therein.

9. Carrier means for holding envelope means or the like during processing of photographic means contained in the envelope means comprising, in combination, elongated base means constructed to engage and hold a lower portion of envelope means when positioned thereon, said base means having an opening therein to permit passage of uid therethrough into said envelope means when positioned thereon, arm means operatively connected in one end portion to said base means and projecting therefrom with said arm means being positioned at the sides of said base means to be engageable with said envelope means when positioned in said carrier means to limit lateral movement of said envelope means relative to said carrier means, the other end portion of said arm means being shaped to provide hand hold means and positioned over said base means to be engageable with said envelope means to limit movement thereof, said other end portion of said arm means being flexible and movable from the position overlying said base means when inserting and removing said envelope means.

References Cited in the le of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS MacDowell Aug. 17, 1920 Rodier June 30, 1942 HiXon et al. June 30, 1959 HiXon et al. June 30, 1959 Keller Oct. 24, 1961 

8. APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING A PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINT OR THE LIKE COMPRISING, IN COMBINATION, A CARRIER HAVING AN ELONGATED AND RELATIVELY NARROW PLASTIC BASE MEMBER WITH INTEGRAL UPWARDLY PROJECTING SIDE AND END WALLS THEREAROUND, A PLURALITY OF APERTURES THROUGH THE BOTTOM OF SAID BASE MEMBER OF SAID CARRIER, A PLURALITY OF INTEGRALLY FORMED SEMI-CYLINDRICAL POSITIONING LUGS EXTENDING TRANSVERSELY ACROSS THE INSIDE SURFACE OF SAID BOTTOM OF SAID BASE MEMBER OF SAID CARRIER IN SPACED RELATION AND INTERSECTING SAID SIDE WALLS THEREOF, SAID CARRIER HAVING TWO FLAT ARM MEMBERS SECURED IN ONE END PORTION TO THE INTERMEDIATE PORTION OF SAID SIDE WALLS AND EXTENDING UPWARDLY THEREFROM IN SPACED RELATION, THE OTHER END PORTION OF EACH OF SAID ARM MEMBERS OF SAID CARRIER OVERLYING SAID BOTTOM OF SAID BASE MEMBER AND HAVING A PORTION THEREOF ENGAGEABLE WITH EACH OTHER AND COOPERATING TO FORM A HANDLE, SAID OTHER END PORTION OF ONE OF SAID ARM MEMBERS OF SAID CARRIER HAVING A SEMI-CYLINDRICAL RECESS THEREIN EXTENDING TRANSVERSELY THEREACROSS AND FACING THE OTHER OF SAID ARM MEMBERS, AND A PLASTIC CONDUIT, THE CENTER PORTION OF SAID CONDUIT BEING BENT IN THREE SUBSTANTIALLY EQUAL AND PARALLEL LENGTHS AND SECURED TO THE OUTSIDE SURFACE OF SAID BOTTOM OF SAID BASE MEMBER WITH THE END PORTIONS THEREOF PROJECTING UPWARDLY THROUGH OPPOSITE ENDS OF SAID BASE MEMBER, A PLURALITY OF HOLES IN SAID CENTER PORTION OF SAID CONDUIT, ONE OF SAID END PORTIONS OF SAID CONDUIT BEING SNUGLY RECEIVED IN SAID RECESS IN SAID ONE OF SAID ARM MEMBERS, A COUPLING MEMBER RECEIVING THE ENDS OF SAID CONDUIT, AND AN ENVELOPE, SAID ENVELOPE INCLUDING TWO SPACED RECTANGULAR AND INTEGRALLY FORMED PLASTIC SHEETS, TWO OPPOSITE EDGES ON ONE OF SAID SHEETS BEING SECURED TO LIKE EDGES ON THE OTHER OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE TO SECURE SAME TOGETHER, THE CENTER PORTION OF EACH OF SAID SHEETS BEING IN GENERALLY PARALLEL PLANES AND IN SPACED RELATION, A PLURALITY OF SPACED MOUNTING HOLES IN EACH OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE, EACH OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE HAVING ANNULAR PORTIONS THEREOF SURROUNDING SAID HOLES THEREIN PROJECTING THEREFROM TOWARD THE OTHER OF SAID SHEETS, SAID HOLES IN SAID ENVELOPE BEING ARRANGED IN SPACED ROWS WITH SAID HOLES IN SAID ONE OF SAID SHEETS THEREOF BEING AXIALLY ALIGNED WITH SAID HOLES IN SAID OTHER OF SAID SHEETS, A PLURALITY OF SPOOL-SHAPED SPACER MEMBERS HAVING FLAT ENDS, A CURVED END SMOOTH SURFACE BETWEEN SAID ENDS AND BEING SMALLER IN DIAMETER AT THE CENTER PORTION THAN AT SAID ENDS, ALIGNED ONES OF SAID HOLES IN SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE HAVING ONE OF SAID SPACER MEMBERS THEREBETWEEN AND ENGAGING SAID ANNULAR PORTIONS OF SAID SHEETS AROUND SAID HOLES THERETHROUGH, A PLURALITY OF BOLTS, SAID BOLTS EXTENDING THROUGH SAID HOLES IN EACH OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE AND THROUGH SAID SPACER MEMBERS THEREBETWEEN, A PLURALITY OF NUTS, EACH OF SAID NUTS RECEIVING ONE OF SAID BOLTS TO SECURE SAME IN POSITION WITH SAID NUTS AND THE HEADS OF SAID BOLTS BEING RECESSED IN SAID ANNULAR PORTIONS OF SAID SHEETS, SAID SPACER MEMBERS DIVIDING THE SPACE BETWEEN SAID SHEETS INTO A PLURALITY OF COMPARTMENTS TO RECEIVE PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINTS OR THE LIKE DURING PROCESSING THEREOF, A PLURALITY OF INTEGRALLY FORMED ELONGATED RIDGES ON EACH OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE PROJECTING TOWARD THE OTHER OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE, SAID RIDGES ON SAID ENVELOPE BEING ARRANGED IN SPACED ROWS ON EACH OF SAID SHEETS PARALLEL TO THE EDGES OF SAID SHEETS AND WITH SAID RIDGES WITHIN EACH OF SAID ROWS BEING GENERALLY PARALLEL TO EACH OTHER AND WITH SAID RIDGES OF ADJACENT ONES OF SAID ROWS BEING GENERALLY PERPENDICULAR TO EACH OTHER AND STAGGERED IN RELATION TO SAID RIDGES IN SAID ADJACENT ROWS, SAID RIDGES ON SAID ONE OF SAID SHEETS BEING POSITIONED RELATIVE TO SAID RIDGES ON SAID OTHER OF SAID SHEETS SO THAT SPACED ONES ARE APPROXIMATELY PERPENDICULAR TO EACH OTHER WITH THE CENTER PORTIONS THEREOF IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO EACH OTHER AND WITH A MAJOR PORTION OF EACH OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE OUT OF CONTACT WITH EACH OTHER, A PLURALITY OF ROWS OF PERFORATIONS IN EACH OF SAID SHEETS ALIGNED WITH CORRESPONDING PERFORATIONS IN THE OTHER OF SAID SHEETS OF SAID ENVELOPE, SAID PERFORATIONS IN SAID ENVELOPE BEING POSITIONED BETWEEN SAID RIDGES IN SAID ROWS OF RIDGES, AND A PLURALITY OF SPACED ARCUATE NOTCHES ALONG THE BOTTOM EDGE OF EACH OF SAID SHEETS, SAID ENVELOPE BEING POSITIONED WITHIN SAID CARRIER WITH SAID NOTCHES ALONG THE BOTTOM EDGE THEREOF RECEIVING SAID POSITIONING LUGS ON SAID CARRIER AND WITH SAID ENVELOPE BEING POSITIONED BETWEEN SAID BASE MEMBER OF SAID CARRIER AND SAID HANDLE THEREON AND BETWEEN SAID END WALLS OF SAID CARRIER, SAID APPARATUS BEING CONSTRUCTED AND ADAPTED SO THAT NITROGEN GAS OR THE LIKE CAN BE PROVIDED TO SAID COUPLING MEMBER OF SAID CARRIER TO PASS THROUGH SAID CONDUIT AND BE DISCHARGED THROUGH SAID HOLES THEREIN AND PASS THROUGH SAID ENVELOPES TO AGITATE FLUID AROUND PRINTS POSITIONED THEREIN. 